What is Behenyl Benzoate?
Behenyl Benzoate, also known as 1-Docosanol benzoate, is a fatty acid ester derived from behenic acid and benzoic acid. It is a naturally occurring compound that can be found in various plants and animal sources. However, in the cosmetic industry, it is often synthesized in laboratories for consistency and purity.
The use of Behenyl Benzoate in cosmetics can be traced back to the early 20th century when it was discovered to have skin conditioning and emollient properties. It was found to be an effective ingredient in improving the texture and feel of cosmetic products, leading to its widespread use in the industry.
The production of Behenyl Benzoate involves the esterification of behenic acid with benzoic acid. This process involves heating the two acids in the presence of a catalyst to form the ester. The resulting product is a waxy solid that is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents.
Behenyl Benzoate is similar to other fatty acid esters used in cosmetics, such as cetyl palmitate and stearyl stearate. These ingredients are also used as skin conditioners and emollients. However, Behenyl Benzoate has a longer carbon chain, which gives it a higher melting point and makes it more effective at forming a protective barrier on the skin.
Behenyl Benzoate is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products due to its versatile properties. It is commonly found in moisturizers, where it helps to soften and smooth the skin. It is also used in serums, where it acts as a conditioning agent, improving the texture and feel of the product. Additionally, its antimicrobial properties make it a useful ingredient in products designed to protect the skin from harmful bacteria.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Behenyl Benzoate:
Antimicrobial Properties
Behenyl Benzoate is known for its antimicrobial properties. This means it can help to inhibit the growth of microorganisms on the skin. In practical terms, this can help to keep your skin clean and free from harmful bacteria that can cause infections and breakouts. This makes it a valuable ingredient in products like cleansers, toners, and acne treatments.
Skin Conditioning
Another official function of Behenyl Benzoate is skin conditioning. This means it helps to make the skin feel smoother and softer by increasing its hydration levels. It achieves this by forming a barrier on the skin’s surface that slows the loss of water from the skin, allowing it to maintain its moisture balance. This makes Behenyl Benzoate a common ingredient in moisturizers, lotions, and other hydrating skincare products.
Emollient
Behenyl Benzoate also functions as an emollient. Emollients are ingredients that soften and smooth the skin. They work by filling in the spaces between skin cells, creating a smooth surface. This is particularly beneficial for dry or rough skin, as it can help to reduce flakiness and restore a smooth, healthy appearance. This is why you’ll often find Behenyl Benzoate in products designed to treat dry skin, such as heavy-duty moisturizers and body butters.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Behenyl Benzoate. There may be other benefits and uses that go beyond these official functions, but for the purpose of this article, we are focusing on the direct benefits provided by its official functions.
Safety Profile
Behenyl Benzoate is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, like all cosmetic ingredients, it may not be suitable for everyone. Some individuals may experience an allergic reaction or sensitivity to this ingredient, although this is relatively rare.
Potential side effects of topical application of Behenyl Benzoate include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently insufficient data on the safety of topical use of Behenyl Benzoate during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended that you consult a healthcare professional for further advice before using products containing this ingredient.
Adverse reactions to Behenyl Benzoate are not common, but it is always recommended to perform a patch test before using a new product containing this ingredient. Apply a small amount of the product to a patch of skin on your inner forearm and wait 24 hours to see if any reaction occurs.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, using sources including the CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA), as well as other various publicly available sources.
